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february’s craft weekend

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this group was awesome!
i was worried the entire weekend about the ice and snow.
but they just crafted their hearts out and shopped till they dropped.
we had a scare that we would all be stuck at the Craft House another night but miraculously every single flight went out that day!

Carissa was my helper and taught us how to make perfect pom poms!
we used a Clover Brand Pom Pom Maker… i am obsessed with them now.
Jess helped Kimberlee in the kitchen cooking amazing meals for all of us.
it is a team effort every CW!

i loved meeting each of these women.
it is a joy to have them at the house, create together & get to know their hearts.
At Craft Weekend we try to create a very relaxed atmosphere to make sure everyone goes home feeling inspired & refreshed.

if you would like to come to a Craft Weekend you need to read this first.
then get yourself and all your friends on the Wait List.

and if you don’t want to wait for your name to someday maybe get picked…
you should gather your friends and rent out the Craft House for yourself!

Jill - Meg, this was the MOST AMAZING WEEKEND! Thank you for all you do to make us feel pampered and important. I LOVED having the time to learn a craft and get it finished without kiddos interrupting me. All the crafts were so cute and I have them displayed in my house. Thank you again for being so darn AWESOME!

Kim - It was such an awesome weekend, even with the weather. The craft house is even more amazing in person. After the weekend I felt refreshed and inspired, thank you!

Emilie - THAT was a super fun weekend. Thank you for your hospitality Meg.

teresa - Looks like awesome fun!
Happy Day

Lisa M. - I always look forward to your Craft Weekend posts. I love seeing all of the pictures and the different crafts you are making. And as always, I love seeing all the aprons that were made and what different patterns they chose to put together. Thanks for sharing!

Bethany - I always love the pictures of Craft Weekend. Looks like a perfect weekend. I saw your twin at the Hearts at Home conference this weekend. I literally did a double take, but then I saw she was pregnant. Definitely not you, but a dead-ringer.

Jen - PLEASE tell me someone took that quilt home! *LOVE*

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answers from monday.

UPDATE on Scott… THEY WON!
they won the first round so they will play friday night and saturday too.
it was so exciting.
i made my family take a selfie with me to distract me when they were not ahead and i was super anxious.
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my nieces, my daughters, my mom, my sister and my sister-in-law.  🙂

 

let’s talk about the 21 Day FIX… again.

in the 21 days… i lost 6 pounds and 9.5 inches.
no joke.
i think that is SO awesome.
i was smiling so big about it on monday.
i am THRILLED!
you may be thinking… “ummm 6 pounds? that is not much at all.”
well…. my friend…. you are way wrong!  six pounds is over half of my goal!
six pounds is a very BIG deal to me.
even if someone lost 100 pounds… they have to lose the first 6 pounds first right?!
🙂

let me answer some of the questions in the comments from the previous post.

did you always like salad?  i love salad that other people make for me but when i make it i rarely enjoy it.  and honestly… that salad in the photo was the first salad i had prepared the entire 21 days! i ate a few restaurant salads but the other four times a day for 21 days i was eating broccoli, cauliflower, celery, carrots, etc.

what dressing do you use?  at restaurants i try to remember to ask for dressing on the side.  i use basalmic vinegarette.

how do you resist treats at Craft Weekend or baking at home?  ummmm…. i am not verygood at this.  but i did have less than i usually would have at CW. if you are baking at home for your family… maybe it a good time to try some healthier treats?  my problem there is that all my kids can bake now so THEY are making cookies and cupcakes all the time and it is hard to resist.  it is easy for me to not bake because it takes time i don’t have.  but it is so hard to walk by cookie dough or brownies for sure.  my kids love baking treats!  the main point of this answer is that everyone has temptations, mistakes or set backs but that doesn’t mean you quit.  you just say “i will do better tomorrow.” or “i am doing great and that is not going to stop me.”  just pick yourself back up and keep going.  it’s not ALL OR NOTHING.  it’s baby steps to getting where you want to be.

how are the kids adjusting to no junk food at home?  i got rid of the things that tempt me most… but they are still doing their own thing.  i don’t buy the things i would grab and eat all day long (my favorite cereal, m&ms, cookies, ice cream, whipped cream) but there is still junk food here.  BUT when there is so much fruit and veggies and protein here too it is not as hard to choose wisely.  with the 21 day plan you have certain categories to fill each day and it makes choosing healthy way easier! i want to not go over in a certain area and make sure i get enough in all the groups.  it changes your mid set to picking the right thing over just eating something because i am cranky and bored.  my kids are having to try veggies at every meal though.

how can i get exercise in my already PACKED days?  hmmm…. i think working directly with Marta would help you a lot.  she is really good at helping you be your best YOU.  she can get you thinking about where you can make little changes and tweeks to change things up.  what my answer would be is to focus on your foods.  REALLY focus on eating clean and healthy.  the walks you take on your “smoke breaks” are great… can you walk faster?  you can add in short 10-15 minute strength training in the morning.  if you are getting up at 5:30… i wonder… could you squeeze in a quick 15 minute exercise by doing something the night before to make the morning quicker?  setting out your kids’ clothes the night before?  give baths at night? breakfast on the table when you go to bed?  BUT SERIOUSLY… let marta change your life.  🙂  she is so good at it.

how can i incorporate eating out with this plan? with the 21 day FiX you can eat (healthy stuff) from a restaurant, you just need to make sure you don’t over do it.  the containers are to show you portion size.  you could bring your containers with you… or after a few times of measuring your food with the containers, you have an idea of how much one serving looks like.  at a restaurant… most likely you are going to be WAY over a healthy portion size, even in veggies.

the 21 Day FiX workouts? do i have to have a treadmill or any equipment? can i do this in my basement??  all you need with the 21 Day FIX is light and heavy hand weights and a floor mat. (i currently use 5, 8 and occasionally 10 pounds.  in the beginning i wished i had lighter than five but now i can use the five.  some of those tricepand shoulder moves are hard with even 5 pounds! but you get stronger everyday and it is so cool to see your own improvement.  i do the workouts in my living room so i would think your basement would be fine.  🙂

where you found that snack container that you have your apples and pb in?  it is rubbermaid and i think i found that at walmart.  i know target does not have them.  it also possibly could have been at our Kroger grocery stores.  they are really good!  the blue container is a ziploc brand.  🙂

where did you find your cute water cup?  that cup i found at walmart also.  the brand is Bubba.  it is a 24 oz. cup.  i love the squishy straw and that the lid pops off… no screwing it on just right or breaking the lid.  i have two.  they are $10 at walmart and i think $12 at target.  they are also washable!

 

ANY more questions?  i am happy to just keep answering to help you ladies out!

🙂

Allison - Hello! I saw you did the 21 day fix back in March! How do you feel after a couple of months of doing it? Did you keep any of the 6 pounds off??? Please let me know, I am considering trying it.

Amy - Just wanted to say I stumbled upon your blog today looking for 21-Day Fix recipes, and am so glad I did! I’ve read quite a few posts, and it’s been a lot of fun…and motivating! Keep up the great posts 🙂

Lisa Risse - Hi! I HEART those pom poms!!! Can you give me some ideas on what to make with them? I’m sure a cute little garland would be fun…..any other ideas?? It’s a great project b/c my girls can make them with me….I bet my 6 year old son would ALSO love making them! Thanks for the ideas….you are always fun a GREAT ONES! I so enjoy your blog! Lisa

chrissi - six pounds is aaaaamazing. love it!

Amanda - So awesome Meg!! you look great and happy and healthy!
6 pounds is HUGE! The inches seem to come much easier than a big ol pound 🙂
Way to go!

Brittany - 9.5 inches?! That is amazing! Way to go!!

Christy - 6 lbs in 21 days is AMAZING! I am doing WW online & losing about a 1 lb a week. I don’t mind the slow process. It will be worth it in the end. Your post are really helping motivate & alomost, almost making me want to wake-up earlier every morning to work out before I take my son to school. I am trying to pysche myself up about it. 🙂

You are doing a great job & if a busy mom on the go with 5 kids can do this, it gives me hope. Thank you!

Stacie Jameson - I just ordered mine last weekend. My one thing that I’m worried about is I’m vegetarian. We eat a lot of beans and I count them as my protein but on the fix they count them as carbs. Do you think it would be fine to count them as protein? Also do a lot of one dish meals how would I do that? I was thinking I would have to separate and measure mine first and bake it in a different dish. Thanks so much! 🙂

Michele - Thank you so much for answerign the questions this is great! I j ust ordered the 21 day fix and Shakeology and I have been wondering if I did the right thing. I have been in a rut with Spinning and wanted to change things up. I love the idea that it changes your eating habits and will likely make it a life change not just for the 21 days it will make you think. Again thank you so much what was your thoughts on the Shakeology it was pricey but I wanted to fully commit,so just wondering your thoughts on it!

Heather S. - Hey Meg,
Thanks to you I ordered the 21 day fix this week. It’s back ordered but should come next month. I.can.hardly.wait!!! I’ve been in an exercise rut & am so excited to switch things up with something new. I’d like to lose 10 lbs. A medical issue I had forced me to lay off all exercise till I healed & now I’m back up & rarin to go :)… with a few lbs to lose now as well … your honesty & joy is contagious & I can’t wait to join you. 9.5 inches & 6lbs – holy smokes! GREAT JOB!!!!!!! High five to ya lady. Hopefully one day I’ll get to finally meet you at a craft weekend! 🙂

Angela - Did you get your sports bras yet? Did you have a favorite?

Leah - 9+ inches sounds awesome….but what does it mean exactly? How do you do the measurements?

jodie - Hey! Just signed up with marta for march! Thanks for the recommendation!

Traci - That’s awesome, you should be proud of your accomplishment! Love how colorful things are around here, by the way.

Jessica Jackson - Which sports bra did you find to be the best? I’m in dire need of a good one to start running (for the first time ever) while a full time nursing mom. I bought and sent back way too many from amazon. 🙁

Tara - Is Shakeology required? They are pretty pricey–wondered if there was another option.

Andrea - Meg…..you have inspired me. I have emailed Marta and am hoping this is the inspiration I need to get healthy….thank you

Sarah D - I found the Rubbermaid snack containers at target today!!! And then I saw that there is a cartwheel for 20% off Rubbermaid! (2 days left on cartwheel offer) Wahoo!!! I wanted to dance in the aisle I was so excited. 🙂

Adrienne - I hav worked out 3 of the last 4 days :)) there are many, many video choices on YouTube. Thanks for a little nudge! Congrats on ur 6 pound and 9+ inches! Woo hoo!!

lynn - Good Job on explaining everything!

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so much to talk about!

there is a lot going on over here.
so much that i am feeling a strong desire to climb into bed and sleep for dayssssssss.
but i don’t have time to do that.  ha ha ha


1. Scott’s basketball team won Sub-State so they go on to play for the State 3A Championships!!!

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the first game is tonight!
i am trying to be calm about it… but on the inside i am all a mess.
my stomach hurts.
i hope he gets to keep playing all week… that they win and win and WIN.
State Tournament is SO MUCH FUN.
we are playing in the same gym where Craig played his State tournament and i was a cheerleader.
great memories are made there.

2. talby’s team won their tournament last weekend!  first place!!!

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those tournament days get long but it is really fun to see them get better and better.
and i LOVE watching talby working towards something she really enjoys.
volleyball is a fun sport to watch.
i can almost picture her as a tall high schooler jumping up and slamming the ball down with scary speed.
🙂
she watched lauren play for years and wants to go to State like she did.

3.  ummm….. we bought a house on monday.

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it was time to not be renting any longer.
this house came up and we jumped on it… 9 months ago.  🙂
we have known a long time that we were headed here but we are living in a very small town and i didn’t think any more information needed to be said until the deal was done.  it is just the respectful thing to do.
but now the papers are signed and this is where we will be moving in a month or so.

it is a new-ish home and has been beautifully maintained.  this house was very loved and cared for.
as much as we both would have LOVED an old farmhouse to fix up… that is just not something that is for sale around here.
we looked and looked.
and to be totally honest… we would probably have died from all the work while still maintaining the craft house and raising our kids.

i actually feel a little sorry for this pretty house itself because once our brood moves in… it won’t know what hit it.
we have owned it a little over 24 hours and there has already been dr. pepper spilled and a cardboard shot put thrown… flying through three rooms.  (i didn’t handle that very gracefully)  this poor house!  it’s probably crying out of fear of what is to come.

it is not in the country but it does have a field behind it and it is on the last road of town so it “feels” like the country…. almost.

now… only 1008 more decisions and projects and jobs to do over the next 4 weeks.
i am feeling about full to the brim with overwhelmed emotions.
this is a wonderful home that we are thrilled about.
this is nothing to get overwhelmed about.
i know this.
but moving and painting and answering my kids 50,000 questions while still doing the regular everyday stuff for life and work is…. a lot.

i guess that means i need some more time with jesus and exercise.
🙂
jesus will restore and calm me.
and the exercise will get all the anxiety out… so i don’t bury my face in a party size bag of pb m&ms with a margarita in both hands.

we plan on making changes to make it more Duerksen-y.
rainbows every where!!  right???  ha ha ha

we are very excited about moving into town and starting our new adventure.
i mentioned to craig that we have had a house each decade of our marriage.  Our Illinois first home was our 20’s house.  then we moved to Kansas and bought the craft house when craig was 31 and i turned 30 shortly after.  Now this is the house for our 40s.  he has a 40th bday coming up in one month.

we already love our 40s house.

Jenny B. - Congratulations! I bet you’ll have lots of fun making it more “Duerksen-y!” 🙂

Jenn - Congratulations on the new house…that’s always so exciting!! Many blessings to you and your sweet family as you start a new journey in your beautiful home.

Mindy - Wow – congratulations on all the sporting team victories AND on the new house!! I will be anxiously following along to see all your decorating lovliness that will be happening as you settle in. Jesus and exercise will definitely help you through : )

Deb Meyers - I predict you will move beyond rainbows in your 40s house (you’ve probably gone there already in your head) and soon everyone will be copying your new direction. Can’t wait to see what you do, Meg.

Congratulations and God bless each Duerksen,

dm

rachel hood - ok, doesn’t it look like the guy in the background of picture of you and scott at the basketball game (to the far right) is getting his bum pinched! also, love your blog-congrats on your new house! can’t wait to see the decorated version!

Rach - Congrats on the new house. Your brain must be buzzing with fun things to do to it.

lauren - oh the pages that turn…hesitation sometimes…then full on sprinting with smiles so wide we catch bugs in our teeth! you’ll hit your stride in this home too. i’m so excited for your kiddos! adventures = memories and memories are forever. take care duerksen family!

CathyC - Congratulations Meg! I am so happy for you. Can’t wait to see how you put your stamp on the new house!

Lisa - Yes – what about the chickens and dogs and kitties and won’t you miss your cows across the way??? 😉

ira lee - yeah!!! that house is beautiful! can’t wait to see what you do with it! and i know life is crazy- cray-zy!!! but you will get there. i hope (and i can totally see it happeing) the main living area goes from outdated beige to beautiful bright white! =)

beth - soooo happy for you….but worried about the chickens?

Kerri - My goodness – I thought I had a lot going on right now! Saw that Hesston won last night; state tournament time is so exciting and it’s awesome to play at the Sports Arena. Good luck the rest of the week!

Colleen - Doesn’t matter where you are, but who you are… and the who of you is very good…all will be well and keep up the exercise now matter how crazy the house gets… its the only way to survive motherhood! love the new digs..

Jennifer - Meg,
Your blog has been one of my happy places for a very long time. Thank you so much! Are you going to paint the kitchen cabinets? I’m dying to know. :).
Jennifer

Andrea - Congratulations!!!! It looks like a lovely home and I can’t wait to see you make it your own……..one day at a time!!!!

Christy - Congrats on the house and everything else! I can’t wait to see all the changes you make.

So….has anyone else noticed the butt pinch in the bottom right hand corner of the second photo? I wonder if they read your blog. Too funny:)

gina - moving is no fun, but it will be nice to not rent any more. Guess looking at the big picture helps us all survive a move. yay for all of your kids and i hope Scott’s team continues to play well. Have fun!!!

April R - congratulations and best wishes!
you’re right on about the Jesus time and exercise 🙂

and I’d like to say a big huge awesome “way to go”
for the extra couple of inches on Talby’s volleyball shorts.
Volleyball is a fun game to play and watch – except for the
booty shorts! just a couple of inches more fabric plz people
so we’re all watching the game! 🙂

kristen - So exciting! I too look forward to seeing what you do. I love it when peoples’ homes reflect them and their family and not the next decorating trend.

amanda - please tell me the chickens will be making the move too???

Whitney - I saw your Facebook pic of the house yesterday and could not wait to hear more! What a great house! Can’t wait to see what you do to it! 🙂

chrissi - what a whirlwind week for your family.
congratz on the big games and the new house.
she is a charmer.

Laura - Actually, you CAN RENT FOREVER. Sadly, I am proof! HA

congrats dear friend! now get out the paint and pom poms…can’t wait to see your talents take over that place!!!! xo

Adrienne - Oooh! We have just kind of decided maybe it is time to stop renting and buy a house. Glad you beat me to it so I can see your transformation!

And rainbows? Yes please!

Michelle Whitlow - Such a cute house!! Can’t wait to see how you rainbow-fy it! hehe

KirstenP - I love love love the kitchen!! Lots of cupboards and counters and a place for the kids and hubs to sit and keep you company while you create.

Tiffany - Congrats on a new home to love. And one suggestion, prayer and then a list. Maybe it will help so you don’t feel like a juggler with 1,000 balls in the air.

Jen - Very happy and excited for you and your family. So many wonderful, happy thing happening. Good for you! Yes, exercise and talk to Jesus! Best wishes. Your new home looks wonderful.

Jerusalem - I cannot wait how you put your lovely stamp on this home! My first question is – about those cabinets? Are you painting?? They are screaming aqua to me. What are they screaming to you? Whatever it is I am sure it will be pefect! Prayers for tranquility in the midst of the wonderful busy!

Andria - I can’t wait to see all your blog posts on how you will transform the house in your great decorating style… Exciting! Congrats!

Heather S. - So happy for you – but I WILL miss seeing all the cool parties and and fun you had at the farmhouse. C’est la vie! Another adventure for you and fun for us all to watch as you make it your own. Enjoy!

Gina - Yea, yea, and YEA!! So excited for your family!! Can’t wait to see you put your stamp of the house!! 🙂

Alisa - Congrats on everything – but as a long time blog reader I am most excited to watch the house become truly *yours*. I am seeing white cabinets in that kitchen with turquoise bar chairs and globes on top of the cabinets…Am I right?

beki - I can’t wait to see how you make your house YOU!! I can already see the colorful pots and blooms on those front steps 😉 Congratulations!!

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sunday morning.

well… i am writing from starbucks this morning.
talby has a volleyball tournament again and she has a two game break so i snuck over here for wifi.
and coffee of course.
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this is talby’s first time playing club volleyball.
it is good for her… she seems to like it a bunch… great group of girls.  🙂
we were all together for a few of her games last weekend… that’s FUN!
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and my week continued on with basketball games.
they are still undefeated!  Pretty excited for these boys!  Can’t wait to see how far they can take it this year.IMG_3811
update on the 21 Day FIX… i AM LOVING it!
for the first time in my life i think possibly i have worked out seven days straight?!
whaaaaat?
the workouts are only 30 minutes!
the meal plan – i rocked it.
i posted my plan earlier last week and i am going to make my week 2 meal plan today.
i will share it again and i will answer a couple of questions i had about meal planning with kids in mind also.

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i thought an all hot pink workout gear day was necessary for yesterday.
i needed some motivation since i didn’t do my workout in the morning… i kept putting it off.
so PINK to the rescue!

stanley is the most patient and fun little puppy!
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he just loves attention of any kind… even if it means dancing to annie’s sing-a-long.

ok…. gotta get back for the next game.
have a SUPER sunday!

Heather - Um you look so skinny I thought that. Selfie was Lauren. 🙂

Lisa - We spent all weekend at my 12 yr olds volleyball tournament too. We love watching her play! They lost in the championship which was hard. She had some tears over that. Fun to watch them play so hard! And glad she loves the game enough to care! Glad you had all the family there for some of it! So fun to all be together cheering on their sister!

Mindy - You are a great motivator with sticking to your healthy routine! I love the pictures with the dog. I have to admit to dancing with a patient doggie a time of two myself : )

Library Momma - Legs look great! Good for you!!

Carrie - I have never noticed how much you and Lauren look alike until the family picture of you all, and then the pink picture of you. With your hair back, you two are twins! 🙂

Lisa - I think it’s great that your whole family goes to each member’s games/events! A supportive family is awesome! 🙂

Jessica R - I was reading blogs this morning (and delaying my workout) and when I got to your review of 21Fix and your picture, I immediately put down my iPad, changed into my workout clothes and went for a run. True story. THANK YOU for the inspiration. You look so great!

Tiffany - ^^That’s Congrats!^^

Tiffany - Gongrats on 7 days. Do I hear 7 more? Good luck to you.

Aimee D - Meg, you are looking super skinny these days! I mean in a good way. lol

Stacy P. - LOVE volleyball! And I love Stanley. 🙂

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basketball… it’s our fave.

scott had a basketball game last night…on valentine’s day.
so that was our hot Valentine’s date (and every other parent’s hot date) in that gym.
actually it was super warm in there so i guess it WAS a hot date if you think about it.

his team played the team from the town where craig and i grew up.
in the same gym where craig played in for YEARS growing up…and i cheered on the sidelines.
(GO TROJANS)
it was fun to be back and watch those boys play so hard. (our son? so weird… how did we get this old?)

scott’s team is undefeated so far this year…. it’s exciting!

the game was within a point for the last three minutes or so.
and then tied.
and then we won on a (literal) last second shot.
we found this video on varsitykansas.com.   i wish i had thought to take video.
we were at the other end of the court right near the basket so we had a great view of the shot and the team going CRAZY.
our team is the black team… fyi.

it was so much fun!

watching Scott focus on basketball and knowing how much he truly loves it is just… the best!
it’s so awesome to see your kid light up when they love something.
whatever that thing may be… reading, art, sports, animals, science, math – anything!

personally… i don’t care about the win – lose stuff.
i want that light.
i want to see a connection to something and that drive to “do your best” for no one else’s reasons but your own more than i think about the win or the stats.
those things usually come alongside anyway when that love and dedication is there.

so yeah… basketball is our favorite.
an understatement for my husband for sure.
what would be considered higher than “my favorite” ?
maybe… the ultimate?

whatever.
we love basketball.
(and volleyball.  and soccer.  and track.  and football to0)

the end.

Mindy - I fell in love with my husband watching him play high school basketball : ) I cheered for basketball too. After we got married he played city league for a number of years, then our daughter was a basketball cheerleader and now our daughter is the high school basketball cheer coach. So yeah, I love basketball too, the squeak of the shoes on the gym floor, the heat, the cheers – yep!

Heather S. - I hear ya! Our Valentine’s Day was spent at an all-day ballet competition watching our two daughters dance. Sometimes it’s more romantic to sit and watch what God has allowed you to create together in your marriage than to sit over a candlelit dinner.

Ashley - Hey we had the same Valentines…in the basketball stands 🙂

Lori - Some might read your post and think “too bad— not much of a Valentine’s Day”—— but I know that NOTHING beats watching your kids as they do what they love. Our three are grown (or almost–youngest is nineteen), and sometimes I miss those high school activities so much —-I tear up with memories when I hear The Star-Spangled Banner. Don’t get me wrong— my husband and I LOVE this season of freedom and fun, but I think you spent the most fitting VALENTINE’S DAY of all. Love you, Meg–

Lisa - Oh, the memories in that gym! I think it’s been at least 15 years since I’ve been back. And Coach Knoll is still there!

Rebecca W - THAT was awesome! Go team!

Mickie - Just shared that video with my 9 year old son who also loves basketball and thinks there is nothing better than a “buzzer beater” so he thought it was pretty awesome. Congrats!

Terrie - I read about that this morning and saw video on facebook!
Congrats to your son & team!
I remember our kids playing both teams…such fun rivalries.
I’m not so hung up on who wins or loses either…
It’s so much fun watching them! I miss it…
Believe it or not…they grow up way too fast and then this season of life is over.
Enjoy every minute!

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10 points on a tuesday

1.  i am drinking black coffee because i have no choice… i am out of half & half.

2.  i am watching It’s Complicated.

3.  i am SO cold… i am wearing a coat inside.
and a scarf.

 

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4. how fun is this photo?  i was making waffles in the kitchen and saw that she was reading on the other side of the kitchen window/wall cut-out.  i just reached out and took a shot holding the phone facing down.  She’s reading The Hunger Games in her jammies….stanley is all wrapped up in her knees…. the house is trashed.  SO normal.  so…so normal.

5.  i went to see Monuments Men on saturday night by myself while two of my kids went to a different movie.
(that is one of the awesome things about kids growing up – you don’t always have to spend two hours watching a movie you don’t want to see and you can go to your own theater down the hall) (not every time… but sometimes)
i liked the movie!
i mean… Clooney is in it so… duh.
It was a very “feel good”  movie if a movie about war and nazis can be in that category.
other than the lady giving the world’s most obvious play-by-play behind me…. it was a movie i would see again.

photo-43
6.  i am loving this devotional book….Opening the Door to Your God-Sized Dream
it’s gets my heart pumping, mind racing, creativity swirling and reminds me to give all the glory to God.
she also has this same idea but in a book too…You’re Made for a God-Sized Dream
i think for me… this little tiny bit at a time is all i can handle.
i have so many ideas… so many dreams… that when i get going on my dreams it can be too much all at once.
does that make sense?
it sounds backwards when i say it because you are supposed to DREAM BIG right?
but i want the dreams i pursue to be the ones that God wants for me.  Not my own ideas that please me.
So i am loving the way Holley has broken it down into 40 days… a little bit of dreaming at a time… for the BIG dreams God has in my heart.
Taking it slowly helps me discern a bit more.

7.  Annie really wanted me to make Chicken Pot Pie the other night after we ate the CPP soup on our snow day.
The family was talking about how they love pot pie and annie said “I have NEVER had it!”
So… i made it.  Pie crust from scratch… made the whole thing….  TWO pot pies.
And it wasn’t good.
it wasn’t soupy so it was really heavy.
i was SO disappointed.
like… i wanted to cry.   doesn’t it stink to work SO hard on something and have it flop?
cooking is often like this for me.  So much work to most often a less than expected ending.
cereal is so much easier.
oh well… maybe someday Alice will move in with us and take over cooking our meals, pouring the kids kool-aid after school and helping them solve their problems.
afterlight-2
8. we got to take lauren out for her 19th birthday last week.
it’s been a long hard road to get here but we did it.  she made us a family way back when i was only 19 myself.
she made me a mommy.
she has taught our family so much.  we have so many amazing memories together.
here’s to MANY more miss laurney.  keep up the great work at school!  You are a smarty pants.

 
9.  i am getting very excited to start the 21 Day Fix program that i blogged about last week.
but it hasn’t come in the mail??!!!
silly thing.
i saw that a bunch of you joined too!  Woo-hoo!
i know there are a bunch of groups with Marta so we may not be in the same group.
but i am going to talk a lot about it here… i hope… so we can share what we think together in the comments and stuff.

10. THiS.

i have watched it a bunch of times now.
it is so crazy hilarious.  WHO comes up with stuff like this?!!

and are you excited for Jimmy Fallon moving to the Tonight Show?!
i am beyond happy.
my bedtime routine just got so much better.
that guy is just the best.

 

 

brooke - ao, i’ll admit it, I’m a bad blog reader. I wrangle these two year old all day and I just haven’t been good about it, so I ‘binge’ several weeks at once. So here I am, bringing. At least it’s not ice cream! How funny, that you are doing 21 day fix with marta, b/c I have been following haus of girls for a whle now on instagram. Crazy how the worlds collide:) Hope you are having a fun craft weekend!! Or I guess it’s over now…so maybe you’re sleeping…but hope it was awesome!! I bet eating well during CW was a little tough. Hope you weren’t crabby 🙂 I would have been. Hope all is well, sorry for this marathon post 😉

Ruth Elder - I have a pretty easy recipe for CCP that I have perfected over the years. Happy to share it, if you are interested.

Lu - Hej,
I love your blog!
And I really liked the Birthday picture: It could have taken place in 1996 and would still look the same 😉
Wishing you a lot of blessings from Germany
Lu

Mindy - A dog, a book and some comfy jammies – sigh…what a way to spend a day. I have been wondering about the Monuments Men so glad to hear your take on it. Our daughter loved Full House growing up and I am a Tom Hanks fan so I am off to check out your video : )

regina - Pillsbury roll out crust< can of veg-all, cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, salt, pepper and either canned chicken or "real" chicken. easiest recipe ever and its awesome!!!

Valerie @ Chateau a la mide - Haha, i’m still waiting for my Alice. I love hiow Carol just helps out with dinner, too funny!

Love that Lauren had a special birthday. Glad she is doing well at school.

Loved the Tom Hanks thingy and by the way, I saw the Beach Boys in concert and they stank! I’ve never been to a concert that bad since. It was so obvious they didn’t care to be there. Just a little side note 😉

Happy Wednesday!

Lemonade Makin' Mama - Girl I joined but mine hasn’t come either and I think I’m in a group with Haley not Marta. Still very excited and can’t thank you enough for the prompt!! Man do I need it. 40 is fast approaching and it’s scary. LOL

Kristen K - Meg…if I could do my house/crafts over again, I’d fill this primitive/traditionally-decorated home with vintage treasures & rainbows & polka dots & chickens & pets. Four kids, 2 kittens, and the love of my life is what fills it now (which is awesome!)…and a lot of dreams! But I’ve spent most of my life living to make someone else’s dreams come true, and I’m just plain chicken to ask God what my own dreams might look like. So many have come true in my family alone…but I long to turn my creative gifts and passions into something more, something for Him. When I start to get excited and dream…my brain fills up with doubt, someone gets sick, I forget to defrost the chicken for dinner (I hate cooking…least rewarding mom-job ever in my book!)…and I put off dreaming for another day/month/year. SO…thank you for sharing what’s making your heart sing, with all the speed bumps and blessings along the way. I am encouraged by you and the life you live for God – and I love your blog! Thank you! 🙂

Gail - Meg,
My 21 came yesterday. Ready to get it going. All this KS snow has cramped my running. I hate running on the treadmill. My ADD brain is also going crazy but I think that devotional is what I need. Thanks for sharing.

Kirsten J - What a fun list! I’ve cried over pie crusts before. Don’t cry, though! This is the best : http://zitzmanfam.blogspot.com/2013/01/chicken-pot-pie-crumble.html
Only I cook the crumbles separately or they get soggy. And I add extra broth.

Ashley - I like you. And your blog. And your family. And your dreams.

Barbara (WA) - I feel the exact same way about cooking. And I am going to find that book, it’s just what I am thinking about presently. Thank you!

Rebecca - Our favorite chicken pot pie recipe is Paula Deen’s Hurry Up Chicken Pot pie. You can find it on the foodnerwork. Sooooo good!

Tanya - I’m reading the Holley Gerth book version right now and your description doesn’t seem weird. It *is* a lot to take in. I probably would’ve done better with the devotional.
I am just so happy with the living room pic and your opinion that your house is trashed, cause it just makes me feel not alone in the chaos that can be a house full of kids. Thanks for taking that pic and then posting it – for reals.

dona weigand - My 11 year old daughter Loves Full House! Thank you for sharing that clip, we enjoyed it very much. The beach boys episode is one of our favorites, hahaha

Jennifer - Is the book by Holley Gerth suitable for a man to read too? My husband and I feel that this is his year to determine his dream from God and next steps for the future. I am looking for resources to help us walk through this together but I know Holley usually writes for women.

Edee - Here is our favorite chicken pot pie recipe. It tastes exactly how you think pot pie should taste and it is pretty easy. My family says this is one of the best things I make. We’re having it tomorrow!

http://www.marthastewart.com/933543/chicken-pot-pies?czone=food%2Fchicken-recipes%2Ffavorite-chicken-recipes&gallery=894540&slide=933543&center=897845

Laura - When you feel up for trying again, my sister’s recipe for pot pie is fool proof and delicious. and PLEASE buy the crust! Pillsbury (the roll out one) I don’t make it often because: gluten because: carbs because: cellulite, but the kids love it. Recipe in link below.

http://reigningitin.blogspot.com/2008/09/my-first-ever-cooking-post.html

Kerri - My husband and I are planning to see “The Monuments Men” on Thursday and I’m really looking forward to it. George Clooney – yeah! And I can’t wait to see “Winter’s Tale” that comes out this weekend. Colin Farrell is in it and the actress who played the youngest daughter on “Downton Abbey.” I have a hard time staying up past about 10:45 p.m. but am ready for Jimmy Fallon; he is hilarious.

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snow day and a recipe

i have had times where i dread a snow day but i was actually excited about this one.
it was as if we had the time for a break.
that is kind of sad but it is true.  I was caught up enough that i was excited for a snow day.

first off… we made hot chocolate donuts.
snow6this was our recipe….  a boxed cake mix we had in the cabinet.  Two mixes actually.  the marshmallow frosting comes in the box.  and we have a donut pan.   AND a few weeks ago my little girls BEGGED for the Mallow Bits so it was perfectly meant to be on our snow day!donutIMG_3215we each just watched it snow all day long while still in our jammies.  snow3oh these dogs.  they LOVE this stuff!IMG_2680IMG_2707we finally ventured out of the house at 4:00.  it was so beautiful!IMG_2701IMG_2693IMG_2692IMG_2690IMG_2686IMG_2709snow7IMG_2743“HEY MOM!!! I”M CLEANING THE FENCE FOR YOU!”
thanks sweetie.  it had really been bothering me how “messy” it was.   ha ha haIMG_2674IMG_2684
IMG_2729IMG_2721IMG_2756snow1doesn’t he look like bigfoot combined with the abominable snowman?!IMG_2753IMG_2750IMG_3284snow4snow2we wore this guy OUT!

for dinner i looked through my computer for something yummy to make.
and looked.
and looked.
snow8snow9between a bunch of different recipes… i threw this soup together and it was YUMMY!!!
we made bread to dip in it too.
seriously…SO GOOD.
ALL of my kids ate their whole bowl….  WITH VEGETABLES IN IT!

you could add broccoli too or other veggies.
i didn’t put the peas in since i knew i pushing it big time with the celery AND carrots in one pot.
but maybe next time they can handle it.

it was delicious comfort food after playing out in the snow.

katey - Oh the snow looks wonderful!!! We are keeping our fingers crossed that Alabama will get at least one snow this year. And the soup looks great!! Will have to try that one because the family can only take Chili and Veggie Beef so many times in one winter. Thanks.

Mindy - What wonderful fun topped off by homemade soup – the best!

Shelby Shreck-Beck - Looking through the pictures makes me smile and I so wish I had your skills for taking pictures! Your girls are beautiful, your boys are handsome and your dogs are so stinkin cute!!! Thank you for putting a smile on my face! Oh, I love snow days too!

Deb Meyers - i just knew you’d buy the green-lidded tin at Target (seen in picture with Sean). 🙂

deb meyers

Lisa - Great pictures! We got a lot of snow today but no snow day… boo! 😉 And that soup looks so yummy!

Andrea - What a great snow day. Your dogs had as much or more fun than all of you! that Waffle looked like he was in heaven!

Kimber-Leigh - what a gorgeous snow day! and that soup sounds delicious!

Tiffany - You create such stunning pictures of every-day life. I love it. I’m amazed by your winters down there. Weren’t you out taking pics without jackets and no snow on the ground at you last CW, and now this much snow?! I guess MN is so different. Once it snows it stays for a good 5 months. Plus there is no way we would be out without jackets. (-10 degrees air temp as I type.)

PS- That recipe sounds so yummy! I’m going to have to try that one. Hummm… maybe tonight. I think I have everything. What would be the chances of that?!

Heather - You take the best pictures!

kim - i havvvvvvvve to be honest. i’m super jealous of this snow day.
as much as i am enjoying our wintersummer, this looked all kinds of magical. what i wouldn’t give to be cooped up in my house for a full day or two, enjoying cocoa and donuts. 🙂

thrilled to see you guys making the most of it, and the pups too. i can’t get enough of them!

Michelle K. - Love seeing all your pics, especially of the ones with the dogs playing…they are absolutely adorable.
Now a question for you, do you do anything to protect your camera when taking pictures in the snow? I love taking outside pictures, but have been afraid since my camera once malfunctioned because of snow/water getting into it.

Kim Barlow - I love the pic of Annie by the big tree. It’s so sweet.

danielle - Looks like a perfect snow day! We are a little farther south than you I only dream of that much snow. Thanks for the yummy looking recipe! I am cold right now and that looks really good!

ira lee - those donuts look so yummy!! as does the soup!!! and you are right, it was beautiful in that snow!!

Suzette - Meg, I love you and I love your blog! Don’t ever change!

Penny - Oh, that sweet Waffle! He is perfect! The new little guy is pretty cute, too. We love snow days and have had our share. 7 so far! I work at the local middle school, so snow days are days off for me! I love how you captured these great memories for your kids! I wish I had pictures of times like that when I was young!

Julie - That looks like a lot of snow and a lot of cold. I think I would love to be able to experience playing outside in the snow like that at least once in my life. I am very much a summer girl though. Those dogs of your look like they are having an absolute ball. Keep warm.

Pamela Gordon - Wow, you had a great snow day there. It looks beautiful and I loved seeing the pics of the kids and the dogs out playing in the snow. Fun! The soup looks delicious and easy. Pamela

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